The Travel Doctor - Sun Exposure While Abroad

When traveling to a destination where the temperature and humidity surpass that of the region you are traveling from, it is important to safeguard against exposure to the sometimes extreme conditions.

For best protection, a UVA and UVB-protective sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher should be applied to clean, dry skin 30 to 60 minutes before exposure to UV-rays. If outdoor activity involving swimming or excess sweating is planned, a water-resistant formula should be used. Sunscreen should be reapplied every one to three hours and after swimming or excessive sweating; however, reapplication does not extend the time of protection.

If you are using any medications or prescriptions, consult the packaging and/or your physician to see if they may cause photosensitivity reactions.

Other strongly recommended sun protective measures include avoiding mid-day sun exposure; wearing a broad-brimmed hat; wearing loose-fitting, tightly woven, colored clothing; and changing into dry clothing following swimming to allow less penetration of UV radiation. Sunbathers should also remember that large beach umbrellas reduce exposure by only 50%.

Sunglasses serve an important purpose beyond using them as a fashion accessory and protection against glare and squinting. UV radiation from the sun may damage the cornea, choroid, conjunctiva, lens and retina of the eyes. Chronic exposure to solar UV radiation also is a significant risk factor for development of cataracts. Wearing sunglasses is the best way to prevent ocular phototoxicity. There are three classes of nonpresciption sunglasses:

Cosmetic Models - must block at least 70% of UVB light striking and 20% of UVA light.
General Purpose - must block at least 95% of UVB light and 60% of UVA light
Special Purpose - must block 99% of UVB and 60% of UVA light

Travelers who desire the maximum protection should look for a label on the sunglasses indicating absorption of UV up to 400 nm (complete UVA and UVB blockage).

Sunstroke or heatstroke is a condition in which the thermoregulatory mechanism of the body fails, sweating stops and body temperature rises above 105 F. Sunstroke is usually the last stage of a series of heat and sun related problems (including heat stress and heat exhaustion), during which dehydration, fever and hypotension become important. Sunstroke is life-threatening. Victims of sunstroke are confused and need immediate medical care; evacuation may be required.

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